John Maclennan, 8 Kirkibost

Stornoway Gazette, 4 October 1940
It was with deep sorrow and regret that Bernera learned two weeks ago of the loss of one of her sonson active service. John Maclennan, RNR, eldest son of Mr and Mrs Murdo Maclennan, 8 Kirkibost, Bernera. John, who was only 19 years of age, was serving as a gunlayer on one of HM armed trawlers. Up to the time of writing, no details are available beyond the communication received by the lad's father from the Commander of the Naval Base to which his ship was attached, expressing sympathy with him in his bereavement. John being a naval reservist, was called up immediately on the outbreak of war, and, with two other Kirkibost lads, was drafted to HMS Chitral and was on board this ship when she took part in rescue operations after the sinking of the Rawalpindi by an enemy raider. In February of this year he underwent a three months' course at a gunnery school. After a short spell on a shore battery he again entered a gunnery school and in two weeks' time qualified as a gunlayer. He was then drafted to one of HM armed trawlers in charge of the guns but was only a month on the ship when news came that he was missing. John, who was a quiet and respected young lad, will be remembered with pride and affection for his sterling qualities and for his most happy and radiant nature. His happy smile was extended to all, and the many friends he made on his short pilgrimage in this world now feel that a link in the friendship he created has been severed. We who knew John so well will always cherish fond memories of him and rank him as one whose character and honest nature were above reproach. Our deep and heartfelt sympathy goes out in full measure to his father, mother, brothers and sister in the loss of a most dutiful and loving son and brother.